Pitch
A pitch in tailoring and fashion refers to the distance between regularly repeating design elements or patterns on fabric. It's like measuring the spacing between stripes, dots, or any repeating motifs on cloth. Understanding pitch is crucial for pattern matching, especially when making garments that need aligned patterns across seams. When tailors mention pitch in their resumes, they're typically referring to their ability to work with patterned fabrics and create professionally finished garments where patterns line up perfectly at seams - a highly valued skill in high-end tailoring and dressmaking.
Examples in Resumes
Expertly matched complex patterns with precise Pitch alignment in custom suits
Managed quality control for Pitch matching across production lines
Trained junior tailors in Pitch calculation and pattern matching techniques
Typical job title: "Pattern Matchers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Pattern Matchers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle pattern matching for a complex plaid suit?
Expected Answer: A senior tailor should explain the process of calculating pitch across different panels, planning cutting layouts, and ensuring patterns match at all major seams while maintaining garment fit and structure.
Q: How do you train others in pattern matching techniques?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate teaching experience and ability to break down complex pattern matching into simple steps, including measuring pitch, marking reference points, and quality control methods.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What considerations do you take when matching patterns across curved seams?
Expected Answer: Should explain how to adjust for fabric curves while maintaining pattern alignment, including techniques for marking and pinning to ensure proper matching.
Q: How do you calculate fabric requirements for pattern-matched garments?
Expected Answer: Should describe how to measure pattern repeat/pitch and calculate additional fabric needed to ensure proper pattern matching across all garment pieces.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is pattern pitch and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that pitch is the distance between repeating patterns and why measuring it correctly is crucial for professional-looking garments.
Q: How do you match stripes at a basic seam?
Expected Answer: Should describe the process of measuring pitch, marking reference points, and basic techniques for aligning stripes when joining two pieces of fabric.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic pattern matching on simple fabrics
- Understanding of pitch measurement
- Simple stripe and check matching
- Basic seam alignment techniques
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex pattern matching
- Curved seam pattern alignment
- Fabric requirement calculations
- Quality control procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced pattern matching techniques
- Training and supervision
- Complex garment construction
- Problem-solving for difficult fabrics
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic pattern matching concepts
- No experience with different pattern types (stripes, plaids, etc.)
- Lack of attention to detail
- No understanding of fabric grain and its impact on pattern matching
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